Garden Friend: Planting Perennials for Your Climate
MIDDLETOWN - Winter is here and I have my nose in catalogs. I’m considering what I will be planting this year.

       As am going through the catalogs, I explore the perennials to see what’s new and what I may like to add to my gardens. There are many factors to my decisions. One very important factor is the cold hardiness zone, or the plant’s ability to withstand a minimum temperature.

       The cold hardiness zone map was first introduced in 1960 and was updated in 1990. Hardiness zones are based on the average annual extreme minimum temperature during the past 30-year period. It’s not the lowest temperature that has ever occurred in the past or might occur in the future. Subsequently, the data has been revised and, in January of 2012, the map was updated.

       Cromwell is in zone 6B, which means the annual extreme minimum temperature is -5 to 0 degrees. So when I look to see what perennials I can buy, I stick to zone 6 or lower. If it says 7 or higher, I know I have to treat the plant as an annual.

       With that said, I have pushed the limit with gladiolus. I plant them next to the house on the south side and I leave them. Even though they are a zone 8, I get most of them to come back and even multiply. So if there is a plant that is on your list but it’s in zone 7 or higher, give it a try. Given the right conditions, it might thrive. Heavy mulching is usually recommended for added protection.

       Another factor is the heat zone. The heat zone map was introduced in 1997. This map was developed using 20 years worth of data. Many plants may take the cold, but not necessarily the heat. Cromwell’s heat zone is a 5, which means 30 to 45 days of the year, the average temperature is above 86 degrees. This is the temperature at which a plant begins to suffer and is unable to process water fast enough to maintain normal functions. This would be considered heat stress.

       If a plant has a number lower than 5 it probably won’t do well in a sunny location. The best way to grow a lower-zoned plant is keep it out of the sun and put it in a shady location. Ever notice a Hosta whose leaves look burnt and thin? That is an example of a plant with heat stress. This is why most Hostas need to be in the shade.

       Heat zones are more of a guideline in selecting plants. Ever yard is different and can even have micro climates.

       A special note: Bamboo is being offered in many catalogs. Know the law before purchasing. As of October, 2013, the law requires a 100-foot setback from abutting property and a public right-of-way for running bamboo planted after that date, unless it is properly contained. The law subjects violators to a $100 fine.
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